Two screen agencies join forces

Dame Patsy Reddy, New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) Board Chair, welcomes today’s announcement that the Commission and Film New Zealand will join forces from 1 August 2015.

“Our two agencies have worked very closely together for many years and particularly to ensure the success of the New Zealand Screen Production Grant since it was introduced last year,” says Dame Patsy.

“This announcement builds on and formalises that approach, by creating a one-stop shop for film makers and screen companies in New Zealand and overseas.”

Dame Patsy says Film New Zealand’s promotion of New Zealand as the world’s leading location for screen production will continue as usual under the new framework.

“We see this move as combining the expertise, relationships, resources and strengths of both agencies, to support industry efforts to attract screen productions and promote New Zealand as a world-class film location.

As part of the integration, Film New Zealand’s staff will move across to the NZFC premises. The Film New Zealand Board is resigning, and Film New Zealand Chief Executive Gisella Carr has announced she will be stepping down from her role at the time of the integration.

“For over two decades, Film NZ has enjoyed significant success and developed an excellent reputation internationally. I would like to thank Gisella Carr and the Film NZ Board for their outstanding contribution to bringing economically-valuable international screen production to New Zealand and for promoting New Zealand as a world-class screen production destination. NZFC will work to ensure that this important service continues to be provided,” says Dame Patsy.

Film New Zealand Board Chair John McCay also welcomes the changes.

“The announcement formalises the ongoing collaborative work between the two agencies and will deliver positive results for New Zealand’s screen industry and our international clients”, says Mr McCay.